A 38-year-old woman who was misdiagnosed with flu when she was actually having heart attack is to strut her stuff on a catwalk after making a full recovery.

Businesswoman Priscilla Chandro has signed up to be a model at the next University College of Arts, Epsom Fashion show, to raise money for the British Heart Foundation (BHF) during National Heart Month.

Miss Chandro, who owns her own Karaoke business, was only 37 when she suffered a massive heart attack which went unidentified for more than three days.

She said: “My heart attack was a real shock. I am a young mum who leads a normal healthy lifestyle. On the night it happened I woke up with shooting pains in my head and arms.”

She staggered downstairs for fresh air and paracetamol and the next thing she remembers was staring at the ceiling.

The ambulance arrived, but Miss Chandro was told she had flu and she remained at home.

Days later - and still in pain - she was forced to go to A&E, where tests revealed she had suffered a massive heart attack and needed a stent fitted.

Nearly two years after falling ill, she became a volunteer for the British Heart Foundation and has just taken on the new role as a model for the UCA Fashion show in the Epsom Playhouse.

Miss Chandro said: “The fact I’m young and a woman pulled me through that night. But I also firmly believe that my time here isn't done and everything that's happening now is just proving that.

“I've ticked the box where my karaoke is concerned and where that goes is a bonus - I just want to show that it can be done - whatever it is you want to change - relationships, career, financial - you can do it, just believe in yourself.”

The fashion show will be held at Myers Hall Epsom Playhouse on February 11 with clothes and accessories from the British Heart Foundation shop in Epsom, with all proceeds going to the charity.

To buy tickets call Elaine on 07766 185130 or go to the reception desk at UCA, on Ashley Road, Epsom.

To get ideas for National Heart Month or order your free fundraising kit call Heather Hunt on 01372 388430or visit bhf.org.uk/red.